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A Look Into Second Base Options for the Future of the Angels

By Justin Gideon

ANAHEIM, CA - AUGUST 29: David Fletcher #22 of the Los Angeles Angels fields the ball while playing the Seattle Mariners at Angel Stadium of Anaheim on August 29, 2020 in Anaheim, California. All players are wearing #42 in honor of Jackie Robinson Day. The day honoring Jackie Robinson, traditionally held on April 15, was rescheduled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Angels won 16-3. (Photo by John McCoy/Getty Images)
ANAHEIM, CA - AUGUST 29: David Fletcher #22 of the Los Angeles Angels fields the ball while playing the Seattle Mariners at Angel Stadium of Anaheim on August 29, 2020 in Anaheim, California. All players are wearing #42 in honor of Jackie Robinson Day. The day honoring Jackie Robinson, traditionally held on April 15, was rescheduled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Angels won 16-3. (Photo by John McCoy/Getty Images) /
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Angels, Matt Thaiss
Matt Thaiss, Los Angeles Angels (Photo by Jayne Kamin-Oncea/Getty Images) /

Angels Second Basemen of the Future: Matt Thaiss

Sorry about that, Must’ve mixed them up. You know, M.T. initials. Anyways, moving on.

Matt Thaiss has been regarded as the first baseman of the future for the Angels, who has been slated to take the reigns at the end of Albert Pujols’ megadeal after the 2021 season. While that is still likely, the Angels are exploring other options for the young infielder.

Including the minor leagues, Matt Thaiss has one professional career game under his belt at the keystone. The idea of Thaiss as the starting second baseman may be a long shot, but it might be one that is necessary if Maddon wishes to get him in the lineup on a regular basis. The reason for this being first baseman Jared Walsh. Walsh has been enjoying a breakout season, hitting .328/.349/.793 with 7 home runs in only 22 games. If he continues to perform close to the level he is currently, he could be the first baseman moving forward, forcing Matt Thaiss to find somewhere else to play.

At least for now, Thaiss may not be able to show what he can do at the second-base position, as he was sent to the alternative site on September 16th. It is unclear whether or not he will get another chance during the 2020 season.

His career slash line of .202/.291/.405 in 61 games leaves much to be desired. Much like Baretto, Thaiss will have to have a strong spring showing to prove he’s capable. While he was a highly-regarded offensive prospect, his minor-league success has not yet translated to the big leagues.

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